Local Businesses feature in Tourism Awards shortlist

These coveted awards recognise the outstanding performers in the tourism industry.

A panel of judges has shortlisted the entries to 31, with seven tourism businesses or initiatives from the Causeway Coast and Glens area making the final selection against entries from across Northern Ireland.

They are the North West 200, the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre, Holiday Inn Express (Antrim), Galgorm Resort and Spa (Ballymena), Fool’s Haven (Carrickfergus), Portrush Regeneration – The Irish Open Legacy and Tara Lodge (Castlerock).

The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony to be held on Thursday May 30 at Belfast’s Waterfront Hall.

There is an extra edge to the ceremony this year as it will reflect the successes and achievements of the ni2012 Our Time, Our Place campaign, which is widely acknowledged as having moved tourism in Northern Ireland to a new level in terms of profile, economic impact and self-belief.

Commenting on the shortlist, Laura McCorry, NITB Corporate Development Director said: “We are delighted with the calibre of entry for this year’s Northern Ireland Tourism Awards, which are the highlight of the tourism calendar. The awards recognise the hard work and achievements of the people in the industry, and encourage the delivery of quality and excellence for our visitors.

“This year marks the 35th running of the awards ceremony and in recognising the significance of the landmark year for tourism the NITB has introduced a new category for Best ni2012 Initiative.

“The NITB congratulates all those who have been shortlisted across all of the categories and we encourage everyone in the industry to join us in what will be a wonderful night of rewarding excellence and celebrating achievements.”

There are 11 award categories in total including an Outstanding Contribution to Tourism award, to be conferred at this year’s ceremony.

Gemma Bell, Corporate Relations, Diageo Northern Ireland said: “Through the Northern Ireland Tourism Awards Diageo is committed to supporting the industry to deliver excellent hospitality as well as innovative events. Both are integral to a thriving tourism industry and the success of the local economy.

“Each year the standard of shortlisted entries continue to rise. In the light of ni2012 this year is no exception. The commitment and passion demonstrated by those working in the industry is highly commendable and very evident in the shortlist again this year.”

Tickets for the event are available from www.nitourismawards.com or telephone 028 90 446292.